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Big Break returning to TV as BBC confirm new hosts of iconic snooker game show

The BBC has confirmed the return of iconic snooker game show Big Break and who will host the rebooted series following on from Jim Davidson and John Virgo

[Big Break will be making a return]

Big Break will be making a return(Image: BBC)

BBC has announced the comeback of the legendary snooker game show Big Break, with Paddy McGuinness and seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry set to host.

The broadcaster has revealed that the series will be revamped, featuring some of snooker's top stars battling it out to win cash prizes for contestants. The iconic show was made famous during its heyday in the 1990s by Jim Davidson and John Virgo.

McGuinness expressed his excitement about joining the new series, stating: "I am absolutely delighted to be a part of Big Break. It is one of those shows everyone knows and loves so to be hosting it alongside legend Stephen Hendry will be something special. Bring it on!"

[Paddy McGuinness will front Big Break]

Paddy McGuinness will front Big Break(Image: BBC)

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Stephen Hendry added: "Big Break was a unique mix of trick shots and great entertainment and I can't wait to be back at the table and bringing this incredible show to a whole new audience and who knows, we might inspire the next generation of snooker players to get into the sport."

Rob Unsworth, head of BBC daytime and early peak commissioning, continued: "Snooker fans and pros alike have been calling for Big Breaks return, so we're excited to confirm they'll get their wish - and can even apply to take part.

"This revamp will showcase some of the games best known and up-and-coming faces, as well as tapping into the deep well of snooker fandom online and already on the BBC.

[Stephen Hendry will be the snooker professional that helps host the show]

Stephen Hendry will be the snooker professional that helps host the show(Image: BBC)

[Big Break was an iconic show in the 1990s]

Big Break was an iconic show in the 1990s

"The recent World Championships pulled in 120million viewing hours, so pairing upcoming live coverage with the new Big Break will mean audiences can come together with the whole family to enjoy more of what they want.

Mobashir Dar, CEO of Vibrant Television, said: "Big Break is such an iconic show from our childhood, and we couldnt be happier to be working alongside Naked and Fremantle to bring it back to our screens.

Production for the series is due to commence soon and will be broadcast on BBC Two and BBC Iplayer.

[Stephen Hendry on Big Break as a young player with Jim Davidson and John Virgo]

Stephen Hendry on Big Break as a young player with Jim Davidson and John Virgo(Image: BBC)

The news of its return comes in the wake of the sad loss of Virgo, who was a staple of the game show during the 1990s, reports the Mirror.

Tributes were paid to Virgo at the recent World Snooker Championship. While Davidson shared his own heartfelt tribute: "Heartbroken to hear that my great mate John Virgo has passed away at 79," Davidson penned alongside a photograph of the duo. "What a character, what a talent.

"From our time together on Big Break, to the snooker commentary chair, you brought so much joy to so many. Rest easy, John. You will be missed."

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